Vietnam Discovered

From the remarkable rice paddies spreading as far as the eye can see to the sun-kissed beaches of Nha Trang, Vietnam is a pleasure-seeker’s paradise. But Vietnam has more to offer than stunning natural beauty. Be charmed by the imperial city of Hué with its ancient tombs and temples, while Hoi An’s old town features many beautiful historic buildings. Experience the hospitality of local people then strike a bargain in Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling markets.

About this tour

What you need to know

We will try to run your tour as close to the itinerary as conditions will allow. On very rare occasions, local events may affect the way your itinerary operates. We ask for your flexibility and understanding in these situations.

The first day of your tour is simply an arrival day with no pre-organised activities. You will meet your Tucan Travel rep at 18.00 for the pre-departure meeting. In order to allow time to relax and see some of the sights you may wish to add pre-tour accommodation.

This tour is for those aged between 18-39.

This tour includes a compulsory Local Payment that needs to be paid to the Tour Leader on Day 1 of your tour. For more information on our Local Payments please click here.

Itinerary

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Day 1 to 1 - Arrive Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City was known as Saigon until the end of the Vietnam War (around 1975). Originally a small fishing village, it is now the most important economic centre in Vietnam and is the largest city in the country.

Traffic in the city is fairly hectic at the best of times but getting around is surprisingly easy by taxi or motorbike taxi, although drivers may not always speak English. Bus is the only form of public transport and motorbikes rule the road; there are around 3 million motorbikes cruising around the streets of Ho Chi Minh City.

Accommodation

Day 2 to 2 - Nha Trang

Today we will fly to beautiful Nha Trang which is a popular beachside destination for many travellers and is brimming with restaurants, bars and excellent nightlife.

Accommodation

1 night(s) in hotels

Meals

1 Buffet Breakfast(s)

Day 3 to 3 - Nha Trang

Enjoy a boat cruise today where you can swim in the surrounding crystal clear waters - try your hand at snorkelling before relaxing on deck with a refreshing drink! Tonight, hit the bars with your group!

Accommodation

Meals

Day 4 to 4 - Overnight sleeper bus to Hoi An

After some seaside play and a late night in the bars and clubs we board the overnight sleeper bus north to our next destination.

Accommodation

1 night(s) on overnight sleeper buses

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 5 to 6 - Hoi An

In Hoi An we have free time to explore the handicrafts, ceramics and fabrics that are sold at an abundance of markets. Hoi An is renowned for tailoring; pack your favourite item of clothing and get it copied here! We also enjoy a bike ride to Hoi an Beach passing lush paddy fields along the way. Once you're there you can marvel at coastal views with a local beer in hand

Accommodation

2 night(s) in hotels at Hai Yen Hotel or similar

Meals

1 Buffet Breakfast(s)

Day 7 to 7 - Hue

We depart Hoi An and travel north to Hue. The drive takes us past Marble Mountain (optional VND40,000 to explore it's caves and shrines) before we climb the scenic 'Hai Van Pass' coastal road as featured on Top Gear's 'Vietnam Special.

The old capital city of Vietnam and home to the Emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Hue is situated on the banks of the Huong Giang or Perfume River. It is most famous for the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often likened to the Forbidden City in Beijing (and sometimes referred to as the Forbidden City as well). Hue also offers many Buddhist pagodas and some impressive Emperors tombs which are well worth a visit. Alternatively, you can relax and take a boat trip along the Perfume river and enjoy the countryside. Pham Ngu Lao Street has a backpacker vibe with many hostels, bars and cafes.

Accommodation

Meals

Day 8 to 8 - Overnight train to Hanoi

This evening we will board an overnight sleeper train to the bustling city of Hanoi

Accommodation

1 night(s) on overnight sleeper trains

Meals

1 Breakfast(s)

Day 9 to 9 - Depart Hanoi

Your adventure of a lifetime comes to an end today. If you have a late flight or have lengthened your stay by adding post tour accommodation you will have more time to explore the sights.

Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic and is dominated by colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards. The city boasts a convoluted yet elegant history which is characterised by its 'chameleon of names' - the city has changed names many times throughout history. In terms of recent history, the French withdrew their forces in 1954 and ever since foreign investment and property has developed substantially.

In Hanoi, exploring on your own is relatively easy on foot or by bike. Many travellers believe the true appeal and essence of Hanoi is discovered wandering the streets, tasting local market food, observing the local way of life, and taking in the architecture and surroundings.

Interested in visiting Ha Long Bay? You can arrange to visit the incredible Halong Bay, famous for its limestone islands jutting imposingly from the sea into the Vietnamese skyline and can even spend the night on a traditional junk boat. As this trip is so popular we highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment. Please speak to your Adventure Specialist for more details.

Please note: Your tour will come to an end the morning you arrive in Hanoi by train.

Other

What's Not Included

International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes

Tips on included excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.

Optional excursions - On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone's taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don't hesitate to ask your tour leader.